Dear Parents,

I hope this letter finds you in good spirits, may it gently invite a heartfelt pause for us to reflect on our shared adventure in parenthood. As we navigate the complexities of raising our children in a world that often measures success by academic achievements and accolades, I am compelled to address a growing concern that touches the very core of our family values.

From the moment our little ones take their first steps, there is an unspoken but deeply felt desire for them to succeed. We dream of their futures, envisioning a life of accomplishments and happiness. However, in the pursuit of their success, are we unintentionally burdening them with pressures that dim the spark of their innate joy?

I have observed a trend to immerse our children in a competitive environment early on, driven by the belief that success is solely measured by outstanding grades and exceptional performances.
While our intentions are undoubtedly well-meaning, it’s important to acknowledge the unintended consequences impacting our children’s well-being. It’s disheartening to see some of our little ones grappling with anxiety and depression at such tender ages. Their struggles to cope often lead to self-doubt. The constant fear of judgment and the pursuit of perfection create hurdles that hinder their growth, suppressing the inherent creativity and joy that should accompany their learning journey. It pains me to witness the spark of curiosity dimmed by the shadows of performance expectations.

Yet, I believe in our capacity to change this narrative. It is our responsibility, as parents, to cultivate an environment where learning is embraced without the burden of judgment and competition. Our children deserve to be raised in a space that nurtures their unique talents, allowing them to flourish at their own pace. Let us impart the profound lesson to our children that winning is a commendable feat, but it is equally crucial for them to understand that setbacks and failures are not the end of the World. Each set-back is an opportunity for growth and learning. Our role, as parents, is to instill in them the resilience to rise after a fall, to dust off disappointment, and to forge ahead with newfound wisdom.

Not every child is destined to score 95%, and that’s more than okay. Every child, however, is destined to be a happy and successful human being. Success, in its truest form, lies in their ability to embrace life with open hearts, face challenges with courage, and find fulfilment in their unique journey. Let us be the architects of an environment where our children feel secure and happy. Let’s foster an atmosphere of positivity, acceptance, and encouragement; where we can raise children who are not only academically proficient but are also emotionally resilient, compassionate, and poised for a lifetime of genuine success.

With warmth and sincerity;
A Parent Like You

– Nilomi Tejas Mehta